How do heating elements work?
Heating elements are found in a variety of items from boilers and electric heaters to toasters and showers. These tools work by converting electrical energy into heat using the Joule heating, or resistive, process. As the electric current passes through the element it will encounter resistance which then produces the required heat.

There are many different types of heating elements, such as metal, ceramicand semiconductor, liquid, PTC, and thick film heaters. Often the most common industrial heating elements are metal, composite, and PTC as they are often highly resistant, heat up quickly, and provide a constant temperature.

One of the benefits of heating elements is that they provide a range of heating options. Here at Under Control, you’ll find heating elements for conduction, space, radiant, liquid, and convection heating. We stock an extensive range of heating elements with prices starting from just £6.86. Our price guarantee means that we will beat any like-for-like quotation so you know that you are in safe hands with us.

Choosing the heating element your business needs

The variety of heating elements available can make it challenging to find the right product for your business. Conduction heating elements are one of the most common. If you have a cartridge, strip, drum/IBC, nozzle, band, ring, mica plate, or Kapton film heater, this is the part you need. There has been a growth in radiant heating in recent years, with ceramic and quartz elements popular choices for a range of businesses.

Convection heating is another popular choice, and this can be found in finned strip and semiconductor heaters. Infrared space heaters are ideal for heating indoor and outdoor areas, such as the beer garden of a pub. We also stock several liquid heating elements such as immersion heaters.

If you have any questions about the right heating element for your business, contact the Under Control team. We are a premium supplier of heating elements and temperature controllers and our trained sales engineers are on hand to offer you the honest and professional advice you need.

FAQs
How long should a heating element last?
The lifespan of the heating element will depend on the material and the conditions of its use. However, most heating elements will typically last a minimum of 5 years. Often you’ll find that most heating elements, with the correct care, will last between 8 and 15 years.

Can heating elements lose power and fail over time?
Many mechanical and electrical equipment begins to lose power and fail over time as a result of general wear and tear. The resistance in the elements can increase with age, causing a loss of power and heat. In time, this will result in the failure of the element. Replacing the heating elements in your equipment will help to extend the life of your machinery.

What are the different types of heating elements?
There are several different types of heating elements. The main five are metal, ceramic and semiconductor, thick film, polymer PTC, and liquid. Metallic heating elements are the most common as they are found in items such as toasters, furnaces, and underfloor heating.

How do I know which industrial heater is right for my business?
The number of different heating elements available makes it challenging to decide which industrial heater will be right for your business. You’ll need to bear some considerations in mind, such as maintenance requirements, the type, and your budget. Electric and radiant heaters are popular with industrial businesses as they offer effective heating.

How much are ceramic infrared heating elements?
The cost of heating elements will depend on the material. Ceramic heating elements typically cost between £8 and £23, depending on the size. There are a variety of ceramic infrared bulbs, reflectors, and half-sized and full-sized heating elements to choose from.